Divine December
December is widely regarded as a season of light, as the darkest and shortest days of the year gradually yield to brighter, longer ones. Across cultures and traditions, this time has been celebrated as a triumph of light over darkness. For Christians, it marks the birth of Christ, bringing hope and light to a dark world. In Jewish tradition, Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates resilience and divine miracles. The ancient Romans honored Dies Natalis Solis Invicti, the Birth of the Unconquered Sun, while the Irish Celts celebrated Grianstad an Gheimhridh, the Winter Solstice, symbolizing the sun’s rebirth.
These celebrations remind us that difficult times, though inevitable, can be endured and even transformed into opportunities for growth and positive change. Embrace this spirit by exploring the following art shows opening or continuing throughout December.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
Once again, prints and cards from my The Twelve Days of Christmas series will be available only at The Next Best Thing to Being There on 1315 Mountain Road NW in Albuquerque.
Regularly open from Noon-4pm on Wednesdays through Fridays, The Next Best Thing to Being There will be open on Monday, December 23 and closed on Christmas Eve and Day as well as on New Year’s Day.
Harwood Art Center’s 12×12 Fundraising Exhibits
Main Event @ Harwood: Friday, December 6, 2024 from 5:30p-7:30pm
Online Store Opens: Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 6:00pm
I have supported this fundraiser many times in the past, but this year is especially meaningful. I’ve had the privilege of joining Harwood’s Youth Mural Project as a teaching artist, working with middle school students after school at Van Buren, Hayes, and Garfield. Together, we explore and collaborate on the art of mural making, fostering creativity and community.
By purchasing art, you’re not only supporting local artists but also contributing to the many incredible programs Harwood organizes and sponsors. Your support makes a real difference—thank you!
My contribution this year is a 12×12-inch version of Hexagram 32: Constancy from the I Ching series.
Continuing through December 27th
Three of works-on-paper from the Postcards to America series as well prints, postcards and stickers from the series are available at The Old Walls Gallery. The gallery is located in Albuquerque just off Robinson Park at 9th and Copper and is open 5-8pm the First Friday of every month, Saturdays 10am–Noon during Growers Market season, and by appointment.
ARIZONA: The Grand Conspiracy State
mixed media on paper, 32 x 46 inches framed
GEORGIA: On My Mind
mixed media on paper, 32 x 46 inches framed
MICHIGAN: The Great Divide
mixed media on paper, 32 x 46 inches framed
ONGOING: PROTEST 2024!
FUSION, 708 1st Street NW, Albuquerque
This show features 54 artists and over 90 works of art
Closing on December 29, 2024, 2–4pm.
Open during campus events, on Fridays, 1–4pm, and by appointment, admin@fusionabq.org
CALIFORNIA: The Homeless State, mixed media on paper, 32 x 46 inches framed
With Love, Denise